Vets Warning: The right and wrong ways to help your dog beat the heat during this heatwave

As the UK swelters through record-breaking temperatures – set for another mid-August – many dog owners are doing their best to help their pets cope with the heat. One common method? Cold baths or showers. During heatwaves, Google Searches for 'Shower my dog' increase by up to 120% on average - but according to experts, this seemingly simple solution might actually be doing more harm than good.

And now, with hosepipe bans introduced across parts of the UK, many pet owners are turning to indoor alternatives – but even these require careful thought. That's why luxury bathroom supplier, Sanctuary Bathrooms has teamed up with veterinary expert, Andrew Price from Tweed House Vets to share safer, smarter advice – including how a well-designed, pet-friendly bathroom can help keep your dog clean, comfortable, and calm all year round.

Why cold water isn't the cooling fix you think it is

It's a natural instinct to reach for cold water when your dog looks too hot. But unlike humans, dogs are much more sensitive to sudden temperature changes, especially when applied through water.

"Sudden cold baths can sometimes shock their system," explains Andrew Price. "Dogs cool down differently to us – they pant, and release heat through their paws and nose. Immersing them in cold water may cause their body to hold onto heat instead of releasing it.

"For routine baths, use lukewarm water around 38°C to keep your dog comfortable and avoid shocking their system. When cooling an overheated dog, cooler water below body temperature can help, but be careful not to use ice-cold water, which may cause harmful vasoconstriction and shivering that reduces heat loss and increases heat production."

"If you're using water or wet towels to cool your dog, avoid covering them completely afterward, as this can trap heat and reduce cooling effectiveness."

Bathing is for hygiene – not heat relief

While a good wash helps remove allergens, dirt, and loose fur – and may even soothe itchy skin – it shouldn't be your primary method of cooling down a hot dog.

"Bathing plays an important role in a dog's hygiene and comfort," says Andrew, "but if your dog is overheating, focus on shade, hydration, and ventilation – not a cold soak."

The real solution? A pet-friendly bathroom that works for you both

Rather than battling with an outdoor hose or dragging a muddy dog through the house, a well-designed bathroom can make regular dog-washing safer, easier, and far less stressful.

James Roberts, Director at Sanctuary Bathrooms, explains: "We're seeing a growing number of customers looking for bathroom features that suit their pets as well as their families – especially in summer, when dogs often need more frequent grooming or cleaning. With hosepipe bans affecting outdoor washing, indoor pet care spaces are becoming more essential than ever. It's not just about style anymore; it's about function too.

"Key features to consider in a pet-friendly bathroom:

• Walk-in showers or low-profile trays for easy, step-free access

• Handheld shower heads or douche sprays for gentle, targeted cleaning

• Non-slip flooring to keep paws stable and prevent injury

• Waterproof wall panels and easy-wipe surfaces for quick clean-up

• Storage for grooming tools, towels, and dog-safe shampoos

• Good ventilation to aid drying and reduce humidity after washing

"These design details make a big difference," says James. "They help you clean your dog more comfortably, avoid mess in the rest of the home, and keep your bathroom in top shape - whatever the season."

Whether your dog has rolled in something outside or needs relief from pollen and dust in summer, a pet-friendly bathroom offers a hygienic, safe space to wash and groom them year-round – without the chaos of cold shocks or outdoor mess.